Ever wonder why running shoes feel so comfortable and supportive? It’s all about the cushioning beneath your feet. Embarking on a running journey is an exciting endeavor and choosing the right running shoes with the best cushioning can make the difference between a smooth or a bumpy ride. High-cushioned running or walking shoes can absorb shock, offer a plush and bouncy feel, and even prevent injuries. Let’s dive into the world of running shoe cushioning and unravel the secrets that make each stride a comfortable experience. Read on to discover the best-cushioned running and walking shoes guaranteed to make your feet happy.
IMPORTANCE OF CUSHIONING IN A RUNNING OR WALKING SHOE
You may be wondering what shoe cushioning is exactly. At its core, running shoe cushioning is a sophisticated system designed to absorb and distribute the impact forces generated when your foot strikes the ground. It’s the level of thickness of the midsole (the layer between the insole, where your foot rests, and the outsole, the bottom of the shoe) of a shoe that acts as a protective barrier between your feet and the hard surface beneath. Running shoe cushioning is designed to dissipate the force of repeatedly striking the pavement (or other running surface), preventing discomfort, fatigue, or potential injuries. Thus, generous cushioning can help to provide a balance of protection and responsiveness, making your feet thrive while you run. Now, let’s explore some of the best-cushioned shoes recommended by our Fit Experts at Fit2Run!
ON CLOUDECLIPSE
On has some of the most-cushioned footwear available on the market, thanks to its CloudTec® cushioning. The Cloudeclipse utilizes double CloudTec Phase®, offering runners its thickest and softest cushioning yet. Made of Helion™superfoam, this ultra-thick midsole protects against heavy impact without weighing you down. With double the cushion, you’ll experience pillowy, marshmallow-like landings and a smooth and effortless ride with the On Cloudeclipse.
HOKA BONDI 8
Hoka is also known for its ultra-cushioned shoes, many styles of footwear being APMA Approved. This means that the American Podiatric Medical Association recognizes that specific Hoka styles, including the Bondi 8, have been beneficial to foot health. The Bondi 8 is a high cushion game-changer, with a light foam midsole. This shoe is best for an everyday run, walking, and all-around comfort. Thus, it is a great option for people who are often on their feet throughout the day, such as healthcare and warehouse workers. The Bondi 8 offers a neutral feel with plush cushioning for a consistent and comfortable ride.
ASICS SUPERBLAST
Asics uses innovative FF BLAST™ technology in many shoe styles to provide walkers or runners with lightweight cushioning that cultivates a responsive and energized feel. The Asics Superblast™ is one of the brand’s most-cushioned shoes, offering a super bouncy ride. The Superblast™ is equipped with cushioned FF BLAST™ TURBO foam technology layered with FF BLAST ™ PLUS foam, giving you an energetic ride and a midsole stack height of 45.5 mm. The generous cushioning of the Superblast™ helps to reduce impact and absorb shock, ideal for long runs and recovery training.
BROOKS GHOST MAX
Brooks is well known for its integration of DNA LOFT cushioning, of which offers soft and protective cushioning to runners and walkers alike. The Ghost Max provides maximal cushioning and comfort, reducing the impact on your body. Earning the APMA Seal of Acceptance, the Ghost Max is a neutral shoe that absorbs impact to protect your feet and legs. The high-stack DNA LOFT v2 cushioning works with a GlideRoll Rocker to decrease pressure on the foot and offer smooth and soft transitions. Experience a buttery-smooth ride with the Brooks Ghost Max.
NEW BALANCE 1080 V13
New Balance’s signature Fresh Foam is engineered for precision comfort, designed to provide a cushioned and comfortable ride. The 1080 v13 in particular provides runners and walkers with unbeatable comfortability and cushioning that reduces impact and fatigue. Designed with a Fresh Foam X midsole, the 1080 v13 is made for versatility and guarantees premium comfort. This shoe is flexible and crafted for any walk or run, delivering top-of-the-line performance and comfortable cushioning.
RUN OR WALK COMFORTABLY
Choosing a running shoe with high cushioning can make a world of difference in your running journey. While the perfect shoe varies from person to person, cushioned running shoes are a great place to start due to their comfort and injury prevention benefits. Ensuring that each step you take is supported, comfortable, and tailored to your running style is paramount to improving your performance and feeling more confident on your walk or run.
At Fit2Run, we aim to provide you with the knowledge to make informed buying decisions so that you feel, well, fit to run. Shop these cushioning choices or more of our suggestions for high cushion shoes online or in-store at your local Fit2Run! Happy running!
